First bird flu case confirmed in England
The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed England’s first human case of bird flu this season. The individual, located in the West Midlands, contracted the virus after close and prolonged contact with infected birds on a farm. They are now in isolation, with contact tracing underway. While no human-to-human transmission has been recorded, concerns remain. Public health minister Andrew Gwynne said that the risk to the public is low and emphasised the UK’s preparedness, including stockpiling the H5 vaccine to combat avian influenza. In response to rising bird flu cases, authorities have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) in England and Scotland. Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss urged bird keepers to implement strict biosecurity, monitor for signs of disease, and report suspected cases immediately.
Warning over 'rapid rise' in measles in parts of UK
Health officials have issued an urgent warning about a rapid rise in measles cases across parts of the UK, particularly in south west England: there have been 21 new cases in Bristol alone, making it the worst-affected city. The rise is linked to declining MMR vaccination rates, which have fallen below 90%, below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. Nationwide, nearly 3,000 cases have been recorded since January 2024, almost half of them in London. Measles, which causes flu-like symptoms, fever, and a distinctive rash, can lead to life-threatening complications such as meningitis and sepsis. Pregnant women, infants, and immunocompromised individuals are most at risk. Doctors urge vaccination as the most effective protection, with two MMR doses providing 99% immunity. The public is advised to stay vigilant, seek medical advice for symptoms, and avoid schools, workplaces, and gatherings if infected.
Calorie labelling could make eating disorders worse, study suggests
A new study published in the British Medical Journal has warned that calorie labelling on menus may worsen eating disorders, despite policies focusing primarily on reducing obesity. Findings suggest that calorie labels can trigger harmful behaviour, including food avoidance, increased anxiety, and obsessive calorie tracking. One US study found that individuals with anorexia or bulimia selected meals with an average of 550 calories when calorie labels were visible, compared to 1,615 calories without labels. Another UK study found that 55% of participants with eating disorders reported worsening symptoms due to calorie information. Experts and charities, including Beat, are urging policymakers to consider the mental health impact of such measures. While the Government defends calorie labelling as part of its Ten-Year Health Plan, critics argue that its benefits are minimal and that eating disorder support should be prioritised over ineffective policies. See
Bishop of Liverpool resigns after sexual assault allegations
Another crisis has erupted within the Church of England, with the resignation of the Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, following allegations of sexual assault and harassment. Though no charges have been filed, he was interviewed under caution last year, and an internal investigation concluded there were no ongoing safeguarding concerns. However, critics argue the complaints (one from a female bishop) were not fully investigated. Calls for accountability have also extended to Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell, who allegedly knew about the allegations before Perumbalath’s 2023 enthronement. Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley has strongly condemned the Church’s safeguarding failures, saying they undermine trust and damage local ministry. The scandal adds to growing pressure on Church leadership, with a petition signed by more than 37,000s demanding Cottrell’s resignation. Critics claim that there is a pattern of safeguarding failures within the Church hierarchy.
